Marussia 'invigorated' by summer break, 50th start

26 August 2012

Marussia drivers Timo Glock and Charles Pic are looking forward to the resumption of the 2012 F1 season, at next weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, where the Banbury-based team celebrates an important landmark in its short history.

While still without a point after two-and-a-half seasons in the top flight, the John Booth-led squad appears to be making progress in its battle with Caterham and HRT at the back of the field, and heads to Spa-Francorchamps looking to build on the new foundations it has put in during 2012 following the decision to part company with designer Nick Wirth and the CFD-oriented creation of its first two machines.

“Across the whole team, there's a real sense that we can't wait to get back to racing," Booth commented, "The break has been good for us and we're ready to get on the road again. Timo and Charles seem invigorated, so we look forward to positive things from the second half of the season.

"Spa is a great place to get things started. Not only do we all love this circuit, but this year we mark the occasion of our 50th grand prix there, which is an important milestone within the team. A lot has happened in the short space of two-and-a-half seasons of racing, but we're a stronger team as a result and equipped now to go on to bigger and better things.

"It has been quite nice to note how many of the team have been with us since the very beginning - Timo included, of course. In young teams, a lot can change - especially its people - so it's very encouraging that we keep building on our original strong core. As for the race itself, we hope to get the remaining grands prix off to a strong start in Spa and keep closing the gap to the front of the field.”

For Glock, the summer break has been a chance to get away from F1 and put the reported frustrations with his team and team-mate behind him. With his current contract due to carry him into 2013 with Marussia, the remainder of the season should serve as a chance for Glock and the squad to focus on next year, but the German veteran is happy to revel in the chance to race at Spa before turning his attention to the future.

“After such a long summer break, everyone in the team seems revitalised and ready to embark on the next important phase of the season," he confirmed, "I myself had a nice mix of relaxation and training and now I'm looking forward to getting back to racing.

"Over the next nine races, we will be working hard to optimise our current package, at the same time as doing some important work towards next year. Those races will take place over just 14 weeks though so, with the long haul phase, it will be non-stop action.

"To come back racing in Spa is a perfect way to pick up the rest of the season. It's one of my favourite races, with a historic circuit that has a fascinating layout. The track is very fast and long with some very tricky corners, so any small mistake ruins the lap. The weather is often a factor, especially due to its changeability. Rain can come very quickly, but this is part of the thrill of racing here. I'm really excited and looking forward to the weekend ahead.”

For rookie team-mate Pic, meanwhile, next weekend will bring a first chance to drive an F1 car in anger at possibly the most challenging circuit on the current schedule, and the Frenchman admits that he cannot wait to get out on track.

“I ended the first part of the season on a strong note, partly due to the team's improved performance, and satisfied with my progress so far in my debut season," he reflected, "The break has given me time to reflect on those eleven races, which seemed to pass by so quickly, and my plan is to consolidate everything I have learned from the team and the car and wrap it all together to have what I hope will be an even stronger second part of the year.

"The summer holiday has also been good for all of the Marussia F1 team and everyone seems refreshed and buzzing with enthusiasm for the next nine races, most of which are overseas, so it will be a busy time. Spa is a fantastic circuit, so I can't wait to be back racing there next weekend. The whole experience is very challenging for a driver; the circuit has such a special atmosphere because of its heritage. I'm looking forward to racing there in a F1 car for the first time and picking up where we left off in Hungary.”